Pe342 itb pump implant

Pump Implant How long will the surgery take?
The surgery takes about 2 hours. Adding time for anesthesia and recovery, you may be waiting for about 3 to 3-½ hours.
How long will my child be in the hospital?
Your child will be in the hospital anywhere from 3 to 10 days after surgery. Recovery from surgery is expected quickly (within a few days) but we will be watching for any adverse side effects including problems with constipation, or CSF (Cerebral Spinal Fluid – fluid that surrounds the spinal cord) leakage. We will also watch for signs such as appetite and regular bowel movements that show your child is recovering well from surgery.
What complications could occur?
Some children have had leaking of CSF from the catheter site. Symptoms of a CSF leak include back pain and chronic headaches that go away with bed rest.
Some children become constipated. This would be treated through changes
in diet, suppositories or enema as needed.
When can my child return to school?
Your child may need to take a short break from their normal routine after returning home to fully recover from the surgery and the hospital stay. Most children return to school 1 to 2 weeks after surgery.
How long will it be before my child can sit in a chair again?
If your child uses a wheelchair, we like to see them sitting comfortably before going home. We expect it will be 24 to 72 hours after surgery before your child is able to sit in a wheelchair. Your child’s neurosurgeon or the neurosurgical nurse practitioners will help you decide when your child can sit. Sitting time should be built up slowly. Start with 1 to 2 hours and then add about 30 to 60 minutes.
What does the school need to know about my child’s
You should call the school to verify your contact information so they know
how to reach you if events related to the pump happen at school. We do not
expect your child’s educational program to change in any way due to the
implantation of the pump. Your school physical or occupational therapist will
be able to help with any questions about positioning at school.
How will the baclofen pump affect therapy? What changes does my child’s therapist need to make to accommodate the pump or the effects of the baclofen?
Changes to your child’s therapy program or activities of daily living will be based on how much the spasticity/abnormal tone have impacted their
functioning and care. Your child’s therapist will need to re-evaluate transfers,
handling, positioning, and mobility skills in order to make new therapy goals.
It is helpful to have feedback from you and the people working with your
child to make decisions about changes in the dose.
hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.
Seattle Children’s offers interpreter services for Deaf, hard of hearing or non-English speaking patients, family members and legal representatives free of charge. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201.
This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your child’s needs are unique. Before you act
or rely upon this information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider.
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